What to expect

During your visit, engage in a simulation of the Battle of North Cape in the Gun Turret Experience and then learn more about this battle along with HMS Belfast’s other major engagements in the War and Peace exhibition. Take a shot at running the ship through the Pony Express exercise in the interactive Operations Room, the nerve centre and brain of HMS Belfast.

Things to look out for

Explore HMS Belfast and see what life was like aboard this floating city as you weave your way through the bowels of the ship and climb up and down ladders across all 9 decks.

Learn about battle stories from the Second World War and beyond, including the convoys in icy arctic conditions, the bombardment of German defences on D-Day and the 404 days spent patrolling waters during the Korean War.

Helpful Tips

It is recommended you leave at least 90 minutes in your day to look around HMS Belfast. Audio guides are free for every visitor and are available in English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Mandarin, Polish, Russian and Spanish.

Check out HMS Belfast's shop for unique souvenirs including a wide range of books, CDs, DVDs, clothing and accessories, posters and stationery.

Younger visitors can enjoy an exciting range of games, toys and souvenirs as well as a selection of children's books. There are also educational resource materials and children's activity books on sale.

As a historic site the corridors are narrow, so it is recommended visitors do not to bring rucksacks or other large items, such as suitcases. HMS Belfast is accessible to parents with prams, pushchairs and strollers throughout '2' deck, the main passage way through the ship where the crew’s living areas are found.

There is wheelchair access to the main deck of HMS Belfast but there is no access below deck due to the nature of the ship. Weight restrictions apply when using the accessible lift on to the HMS Belfast quarterdeck. The maximum combined weight of wheelchair and user allowable is 275kg.

Important Notes

During adverse weather, it may become necessary for certain ladders and upper decks on HMS Belfast to be closed at short notice. Please ask a member of staff on board for more information.